Leadwood

Combretum imberbe (Leadwood, Afrikaans: Hardekool, Sotho: Mohwelere-tšhipi, Tsonga: Motswiri/Mondzo, Zulu: iMpondondlovu) is a characteristic and often impressive bushwillow species of the southern Afrotropics. The medium to large tree has a sparse, semi-deciduous canopy of grey-green leaves. The twigs and leaves are hairless as the name imberbe suggests. Its heartwood is dark brown, close-grained, and very hard and heavy, as suggested by its vernacular name. The durable heartwood is much sought after in the woodcarving industry. The...